I started my career in management consulting, unsure of what I wanted to do but eager to gain varied experience and broaden my knowledge. I worked on large-scale transformation programs across both public and private sectors, including digitizing the national rail network, rolling out SMART meters nationwide, and leading global sales and HR transformations for two FTSE 100 companies.
After a decade in London, I was craving a more dynamic and globally focused environment. Agoda’s reputation for innovation and its international culture made it the perfect fit. The opportunity to relocate to Bangkok and work with world-class professionals was exciting, and Agoda’s support in helping me move my guinea pigs sealed the deal.
A Day in the Life of a Project Manager in the Customer Support and Services Team at Agoda
My role as a project manager in the Customer Support and Services team (internally known as Customer Experience Group or CEG) is dynamic and collaborative. Every day is different, but the key theme is working across multiple teams to solve challenges and drive projects forward. I advise on strategies, draw insights from data, and collaborate with colleagues to deliver impactful solutions.
Beyond the learnings I get on a day-to-day basis, what makes the work refreshing is the diversity of ideas and perspectives. The global environment exposes me to new ways of thinking, which makes me a more creative and effective project manager. It also helps me grow as a more empathetic human being, which is invaluable in today’s world. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is seeing the tangible impact of my work. Whether it’s improving processes or delivering new initiatives, the results are visible and meaningful.
Second, team aside, the work itself, this customer journey mapping was new to all of us. Nevertheless, we worked well as a team, and the output was fantastic. We not only identified tens of opportunities for continuous improvement, but it was really cool seeing how all teams across Agoda came together to pick up these projects and implement them. This project still serves as a blueprint for subsequent projects, and I’m so proud that even after almost two years, it still gets brought up and used from time-to-time.
Why Agoda is an Exciting Workplace
Agoda’s international culture is one of its most exciting features. As a third-culture kid, I’ve sometimes struggled in culturally homogenous environments. But diversity is the norm at Agoda. There’s no single cultural standard, which makes collaboration easier and more inclusive.
Agoda values its employees and provides extensive opportunities for learning and development. I’ve been fortunate to participate in two learning programs—3D, which boosted my confidence in working with data, and Grow Aspire, which is the New Manager Development Program which helped further develop my managerial skills.
Growing at Agoda: Charting Your Own Path
Depending on your role or department, career growth at Agoda is not formulaic or linear. This means you have the freedom to chart your own path as long as you meet fundamental requirements. Internal opportunities are abundant, and many employees, including my team, consist of a mix of internal transfers and external hires. Agoda has helped me grow professionally by exposing me to new challenges and opportunities every day. The company’s commitment to innovation and best-in-class practices has significantly enhanced my skills and expertise.
Relocating to Bangkok with my Guinea Pigs
I relocated from London to Bangkok after a decade of living and studying there. While I had toyed with the idea of moving abroad before, my guinea pigs posed a logistical challenge—they’re considered exotic animals and require specialized live cargo services. Agoda’s willingness to help me move my guinea pigs was a major factor in accepting the role. Agoda’s relocation program was comprehensive, allowing me to flex parts of the package to maximize support for my pets. The process was smooth, and the People team even expedited my partner’s insurance policy when he joined me later and needed immediate medical care.
Living in Bangkok: Artsy, Foody and Convenient
The quality of life here is fantastic. I live in a well-connected neighborhood that has a bit of everything. When I am tired from work, I have a domestic helper who comes to help with chores, and I can access amazing food within a 10-minute walk or delivered to my door with the use of many apps like Grab or Food Panda. I’m grateful I get to spend the evenings looking at the city lights or wading in the pool while fireworks are going off over the Chao Phraya River.
Food and art are my two biggest loves, and Bangkok delivers on both fronts. The food is amazing. Not just local food but also the availability of different cuisines and the quality you can find. The art scene is equally vibrant, with independent galleries and events like Bangkok Design Week showcasing local talent.
Another big highlight of living here is the access to world-class, affordable healthcare for me and my guinea pigs. Back in the UK, I used to go to the vet practice of one of the best vet schools in the world, so my bar is high. The level of care I can get is just as good or better here, but at a fraction of the price. I take my guinea pigs for six-month ultrasounds, x-rays, whenever they have a random sniffle – a bit excessive, but it gives me peace of mind.
Building Community in Bangkok: Connections and Growth
Settling into Agoda and Bangkok was smooth, thanks to the welcoming culture and supportive colleagues. There are many expatriates at Agoda who have been through similar experiences and are eager to share tips and advice. My Thai colleagues often go out of their way to help, whether it’s translating, offering cultural insights, or solving problems. Building a community has taken time, but I’ve started making meaningful connections. I’ve been invited to weddings, gone on road trips with colleagues, and tapped into my alma mater network. My advice is to be open and vulnerable, respect your host country, and embrace the differences.
Cost of Living in Bangkok: Affordable and Flexible
The cost of living in Bangkok is significantly lower than in London, making daily life much more affordable and comfortable. Whether it’s rent, utilities, food, transportation, or even pet healthcare, I find myself spending far less in Bangkok while enjoying a higher quality of life. Here’s a quick comparison of typical expenses in both cities:
| Expense | London (GBP) | Bangkok (THB) (GBP equivalent) | Difference/Savings (GBP) |
| Cheap weekday lunch | 6 | 60 (1.30) | 4.70 |
| 1-hour cab ride to airport | 70 | 450 (9.80) | 60.20 |
| Pet X-ray/Imaging | 350 | 2,000 (43.50) | 306.50 |
| Medical consultation | 65 | 1,500 (32.60) | 32.40 |
| Water bill (monthly) | 30 | 250 (5.40) | 24.60 |
| Commute to work | 3.80 | 35 (0.75) | 3.05 |
Exchange rates are approximate for illustration (1 GBP ≈ 46 THB).
As you can see, everyday expenses in Bangkok are a fraction of what they are in London, allowing for a more comfortable lifestyle and more opportunities to enjoy what the city and region have to offer.
Final Thoughts: Why Agoda is the Place to Be
If you’re looking to grow professionally and personally, joining Agoda in Bangkok is a no-brainer. If you relish the feeling of getting out of your comfort zone, pushing your boundaries, having the freedom to experiment and learn, you’ll get that here. And lastly, you’ll have the chance to meet incredible people along the way.
